Can I build a legal rental apartment in my basement in Moncton?

Yes, you can likely build a legal basement apartment in Moncton, but you'll need to navigate both the city's zoning requirements and building code compliance to do it properly.

Zoning is your first step — Moncton's zoning bylaw permits secondary suites in most residential zones, but specific conditions apply depending on your property's zoning designation. Contact the City of Moncton Planning & Development department at (506) 856-4375 or info.plans@moncton.ca to confirm your property is eligible and understand any restrictions on parking, lot coverage, or unit size.

Once zoning is confirmed, you'll need a building permit from the City of Moncton to ensure your basement apartment meets the National Building Code of Canada 2020 (NB's adopted standard, effective May 1, 2025 for new applications). Key code requirements include a separate entrance to the basement unit, egress windows in all bedrooms (minimum opening size for emergency escape), interconnected smoke and carbon monoxide alarms throughout both units, minimum 6'5" ceiling height in habitable rooms, and fire separation between the upstairs and basement units with a minimum 45-minute fire rating.

Electrical, plumbing, and mechanical work must be done by licensed contractors. You'll need an electrical wiring permit from NB Power (1-800-615-0522) before any electrical work begins, and a licensed electrician must handle all wiring — homeowners cannot do electrical work themselves in New Brunswick. Similarly, any plumbing modifications require a licensed plumber and permits from Technical Inspection Services (TIS) at 1-888-659-3222.

Budget considerations for Moncton typically range from $40,000-$80,000 for a basic basement apartment conversion, depending on how much existing infrastructure you can use. This includes framing, insulation, drywall, flooring, a basic kitchen and bathroom, electrical upgrades, and mechanical ventilation. Higher-end finishes or complex layouts requiring significant structural changes can push costs toward $100,000+.

Start by calling Moncton Planning & Development to discuss your specific property and get the zoning confirmation in writing before investing in architectural plans or contractor quotes. They can walk you through the complete permit process and timeline, which typically runs 4-6 weeks for plan review once submitted.